Would you consider changing the name of your "Sexuali-Teas"?
I host Women's "Sexual-Teas". informal gatherings, where we sample tasty tidbits, have casual conversations, and meet wonderful women. It's been my heart's desire to host these afternoon gatherings, and I'm thrilled to be using my grandmothers English bone china teacup collection as the centerpiece of the event.
I wish I had the opportunity to talk with my grandmother now. Finally, I would have the questions, and the confidence to ask her about her life, rather than to be affected by my knee jerk responses to her criticism. I remember when I was much younger, too young to really get it although it stayed with me, she told me she travelled by herself to Detroit, across the Canadian border, for a then illegal abortion. Now, I want to know more, and i would have the courage and compassion to ask. Sadly, that's not possible.
My good friend and respected colleague recently suggested I consider changing the name of Sexuali-Teas, since while at the tea, we talk about a much broader array of topics, than just sex. She was concerned that some women, put off by the name, would miss out, thinking that sexuality means sex or intercourse, and that they wouldn't join us, since they would assume that we'd discuss embarrassing or limited topics.
I understand and appreciate her concern.
When I am asked about the kind of work I do, reactions vary from shock, intrigue, curiosity. Feelings of discomfort abound!
As a result, for myself and for others, I am eager to s t r e t c h and e x p a n d
the concept of sexuality to include:
self-esteem ; confidence assertiveness body image procreation recreation presence abortion sexual expression humor feelings emotions hooking up choices gender roles gender identity sensuality pleasure
contraception
courtship
relationships
marriage
divorce
living together
celibacy
virginity
coming out
erections
lubrication
women's rights
disabilities
aging
privacy
puberty
arousal
menopause
potential
limits
body changes
sexual responses
medications
condoms
abstinence
sexually transmitted infections
religion
language, vocabulary, terms
fantasies
behaviors
feelings
attitudes
values
decision-making
negotiation
consent
gayness
bisexuality
lesbianism
trans people gay rights
being single
children safer sex
choosing to be child-free
adoption infertility pleasure sexual assault affairs multiple relationships monogamy human rights
Please feel free to add to this list! You can use the comments section below, so we can all expand our definition of sexuality!
Also, join us as we continue to examine and expand the broad variety of issues included in sexuality, either at our Sexuali-Teas, or
NEW! THe New Q & A blog, Hey Jud!!
Ask your Q's about sexuality and relationships-- write to hey@heyjud.com and read the answers at www.heyjud.com
With pleasure, Jud
